In Denmark, the national postal service delivered its final letter on 30 December 2025, bringing to a close a tradition that began in 1624. For more than 400 years, letters carried love, grief, celebration, apology, and everyday news from one person to another.

Over the past 25 years, letter-sending in Denmark has declined by more than 90%, reflecting how quickly communication has shifted towards instant messages and digital exchanges.

And yet, there is something quietly hopeful too. Evidence suggests a renewed interest in letter-writing among younger generations.  Not out of necessity, but by choice. A handwritten letter asks something different of us. It asks us to slow down. To be deliberate. To mean what we say.

As February invites us to think about love, not only romantic love, but compassion, connection, and care, it feels like the right moment to pause and ask a simple, powerful question:

If this were your last letter… who would you write it to?

A Valentine’s Question Worth Sitting With

Imagine, for a moment, that letter delivery ended here tomorrow.

Who would you choose?

A partner or spouse.
A parent or grandparent.
A child (for now or for the future).
A friend you’ve drifted from.
Someone you never quite said enough to.
Or even yourself.

Not a text.
Not a quick message.
But a letter, something tangible, thoughtful, and lasting.

Letters are different. They’re often kept. Re-read. Tucked away and rediscovered years later. They carry not just words, but presence.

What Would Your Last Letter Say?

It doesn’t need to be perfect or poetic. Some of the most meaningful letters are simple and honest.

It might say:

• I love you
• Thank you
• I forgive you
• I’m proud of you
• I’m sorry
• I remember…

In our work as Humanist Celebrants, we see every day how powerful it is when people are given space to express what truly matters. Whether spoken aloud in ceremony or written quietly for someone to read later, words have weight. A letter can be a ceremony in itself.

Gentle Tips for Writing a Letter (Even If You’ve Not Written One in Years)

If the idea feels daunting, start small:

Start with why
Why are you writing this letter now? Let that guide you.

Write as you speak
This isn’t formal. It’s human. Read it aloud as you go.

Be specific
Moments, memories, small details – these are what make letters real.

Don’t aim for perfect
Honest beats polished every time.

End with warmth
A simple closing can say more than a grand finale.

A Small Invitation This Valentine’s Month

This February, alongside cards, messages, and emojis, perhaps we can bring something older, and slower, back into our lives.

Write a letter.
Post it, if you can.
Keep it, if you need to.
Or simply write it for yourself.

Because connection doesn’t need to be instant to be powerful.
Sometimes, the most meaningful words are the ones we take time to write.

Finding the words when they matter

Writing can be a powerful way to express love, gratitude, grief, or remembrance.  However, we know it isn’t always easy.

If you’re struggling to find the right words, our celebrants can help shape meaningful language, whether for a letter, a speech, a ceremony, or something deeply personal.

You don’t have to do it alone, get in touch now